With age, bone health can become a major concern, especially for postmenopausal women and the elderly. Osteoporosis, a disease characterized by decreased bone mineral density and deterioration of bone microarchitecture, results from an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation. This process leads to increased bone fragility and a higher risk of fractures, particularly in the hip, wrist, and spine.
In addition to deficiencies in calcium, magnesium, or vitamin D—nutrients essential for bone mineralization—several factors influence the pathophysiology of osteoporosis. In postmenopausal women, the decline in estrogen levels plays a central role, as these hormones normally regulate the activity of osteoclasts (cells responsible for bone resorption). Without estrogen, osteoclast activity becomes excessive, leading to accelerated bone loss.
A sedentary lifestyle, combined with low physical activity, exacerbates this phenomenon. Physical activity, particularly weight-bearing exercises such as walking or strength training, stimulates osteoblasts (cells responsible for bone formation) and supports bone density. Conversely, an inactive lifestyle reduces this stimulation, leaving bones vulnerable.
The nutritional and toxic environment also plays a crucial role. An imbalanced diet, low in essential nutrients and high in acidifying substances (such as salt or processed foods), can disrupt calcium balance by increasing urinary calcium losses. Moreover, chronic exposure to toxins, such as alcohol, tobacco, or certain pollutants, can interfere with bone metabolism by increasing oxidative stress and inhibiting osteoblast function.
Certain chronic diseases further aggravate the situation. Endocrine disorders, such as hyperthyroidism or Cushing’s syndrome, increase bone resorption through hormonal mechanisms. Gastrointestinal diseases, such as celiac disease or malabsorption syndromes, impair the absorption of essential nutrients needed to maintain bone health.
